Planet Blue Student Leaders

Which U-M Sustainability Club Should You Join?

Have you ever wanted to get involved with sustainability on campus, but felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of sustainability-related clubs and organizations? Or maybe you know your way around PitE Club, but you still want to learn about more sustainability clubs? Either way, take this quiz about your favorite spots on campus, and we’ll give you a susty club … Read More

Planet Blue Student Leaders: Fall 2022 Recap!

blog pod members!

At the close of 2022, our Planet Blue Student Leader (PBSL) team wanted to reflect back on what we have accomplished this past Fall semester and start getting excited for what lies ahead in 2023.  If you aren’t familiar with Planet Blue Student Leaders already, we are a group of peer educators here on campus who work to promote sustainability … Read More

The Buyerarchy of Needs: What It Is and How to Use It

What is the Buyerarchy of Needs? Coined by Sarah Lazarovic, the Buyerarchy of Needs is a fun way to represent sustainable consumption. This helpful graphic presents consumers with several different alternatives to buying new clothes, providing a guide for those who don’t know where to start. To be the most sustainable, users should start at the base of the pyramid … Read More

The Call of Nature: Sustainability in the Bathroom

Living in the dorms for the last 4 semesters has taught me many things, both from the unique perspective I have as a resident advisor and as a regular student. Dorm living has been a great way for me to practice sustainability in my daily life; I have been more thoughtful about how often I do laundry, how much I … Read More

Tricky Greenwashing Terminology To Watch For

“Sustainable,” “eco-friendly,” “green,” “better for the planet,” “biodegradable”—these are all words I know we have heard companies use. With this new era of consumers wanting to buy more eco-friendly products (people like us), many companies are shifting their focus to sustainability. However, in many cases, this can lead to stretched truths and even blatant lies in advertising. I know us … Read More

A Discussion About Sustainable Fashion with Erb Graduate Annie Zaro

image of madewell previously owned jeans

The rise of social media and access to the internet has sparked new waves of environmentalism among younger generations, particularly college students. Many among Generation Z and Millennials have become increasingly aware of their own environmental impact and are seeking avenues to curb their carbon footprint. Of the multitude of options—from changing your diet, minimizing plastic use, to consumer choice—finding … Read More

The Arb and Other Urban Green Spaces

When I was in high school, I was terrified of driving on the freeway and absolutely dreaded taking my driver’s test. The day I finally passed that test, I celebrated by driving the hour from Detroit to the Nichols Arboretum in Ann Arbor. I spent that afternoon sitting along the Huron River, eating fruit on a picnic blanket, and watching … Read More

Peony For Your Thoughts: Fun Activities to Try In Ann Arbor

I think many of us would agree that living in Ann Arbor has some major perks in terms of diverse green spaces and lively events. In celebration of ending the winter semester strong, I want to highlight a selection of natural areas and outdoor events/activities that I’m really looking forward to this spring and summer! Green Spaces in the Ann … Read More

Spring Into an Ann Arbor Summer

It’s finally spring! After bearing through the brutality that is a Michigan winter, I think everyone deserves congratulations and a green, sunny day. The weather (although inconsistent) is starting to feel warm and refreshing, but final exam season might be bringing back feelings of bitter cold, so practicing self-care and resilience are more important than ever!  To help you in … Read More